Levante coach, Luís Castro, highlighted the mental strength of his squad after achieving a historic comeback against Sevilla. The match, which ended 3‑3, was decided in the 99th minute when Levante equalized after having conceded a third goal in the 95th minute and having been left behind 2‑0.
Castro called the performance a clear example of the “non-negotiable mentality” that the coach considers essential for the team. "The games last ninety minutes and they have not been much better than us. If you are capable of having the strength to tie at three and go for four to three... That is why I say that the mentality is something non-negotiable in this team. It is being one hundred percent Levantinista," explained the coach at Monday's press conference.
Regarding the intensity of the meeting, Castro avoided describing it as “marked by tension.” He pointed out that, although there were moments of pressure, the match was “very competitive” and that the emotion of a goal by the rival, celebrated in front of the stands, was understandable. “It was a tough match in intensity,” he added, underlining that Levante's energy had improved throughout the match.
The coach also made reference to the tactical adjustments made after Sevilla's second goal. "We have looked at details, there were things to improve and we changed some tactical details, but the energy has been better and we have gone for more. Mentally we have believed after 0-2 and after 2-3," Castro stated.
Finally, Castro praised central defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe, who, despite making a mistake that opened the scoring, managed to score the winning goal. "Seeing how a player of his age who makes this mistake has played gives you an idea of what he can become. He is not the first nor will he be the last to make a mistake that costs a goal," the coach concluded, highlighting his team's capacity for learning and resilience.
With the tie, Levante maintains its position in the table and prepares for the next match, where mentality and determination will be key to continue advancing in the competition.